Events

ACTRI Action in the Field

  “Tackling Extremism and other Safety Linked threats Online: Strategies for Discerning Signal from Noise. “

DHS, CP3, April 2024.

Fireside Chat with Director Ardian Shajkovci, Ph.D. and Deputy Director Allison McDowell-Smith Ph.D., as they discussed American Counterterrorism Targeting and Resilience Institute (ACTRI) research focused on online threats and how to filter those threats through all the noise online.

​

  “Orion Talks with Ardian Shajkovci: Terrorism in the Age of Artificial Intelligence. “

Orion Policy Institute, February 2024.

“In this episode of Orion Talks, Suat Cubukcu is joined by Dr. Ardian Shajkovci. Dr. Shajkovci discusses the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and terrorism, exploring its harmful potential in the hands of malicious actors. The conversation touches on the prevalence and tactics of AI-enabled terrorism with specific examples such as the use of deep fakes for disinformation and terrorist propaganda methods. The discussion also examines the utility of AI in counter-terrorism efforts, including content moderation, and discusses the importance of balancing the use of technology with the rights of privacy and freedom of expression. Dr. Shajkovci concludes his arguments with policy recommendations on how to mitigate the risks associated with AI and ensure responsible use to identify and disrupt harmful extremist intentions.”

​

  “Combating Online Harm: AI and Human Intelligence vs. Extremist and Terrorist Trends “

THE 14th ANNUAL DUPONT SUMMIT ON SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY, POLICY STUDIES ORGANIZATION, Washington, DC., December 2023.

ACTRI Director Shajkovci presented at the 14th ANNUAL DUPONT SUMMIT ON SCIENCE, TECHNOLOCY, and ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY.  SPEAKERS INCLUDED REPS FROM UNIVERSITY CANADA WEST, KENTY STATE UNIVERSITY, UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY, NAVAL WAR COLLEGE, THE GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY, GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY, NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY, UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK, MIDDLEBURY INSTITUTE OF INTERNATIONAL STUDIES, and MORE. 

​

 “The Role of AI and Human-led Intelligence in Mitigating the Spread of Harmful Extremist Content Off/Online “

NORTHWESTERN UNVERSITY SPS SYMPOSIUM, October 2023.

CLICK HERE FOR ADDITIONAL INFO.

ACTRI Director Shajkovci presentation at the NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY SPS SYMPOSIUM.

Abstract: 

“The proliferation of social media platforms and networks has created an environment that allows for unprecedented spread of disinformation online—the intentional sharing of biased, misleading, or manipulative information—oftentimes in the form of propaganda. While governments and malign actors have long employed disinformation as a tactic, civilians, too, are increasingly embracing disinformation to influence thoughts, opinions, and behaviors. Disinformation has evolved into a means for radicalizing and recruiting civilians into violent extremist organizations to encompass conspiracy movements as well.  The presenter will seek to address pressing and contemporary challenges related to disinformation, particularly focusing on its effects on violent extremism and targeted violence more generally in the United States. Additionally, the presenter will introduce and discuss the utility of more recent and innovative Artificial Intelligence (AI) and human-led technologies and efforts aimed at detecting and mitigating the spread of harmful extremist content both offline and online.”

“Countering Online Extremism in Belgium “

Federal Police Liege, July 27, 2023.

ACTRI & Storyzy Training Provided to  30 safety and security officials from the Local Task Forces (LTF) of the Strategy Extremism and Terrorism (TER) and the Local Integral Security Cells focusing on radicalization (CSIL-R) in Belgium. 

Abstract: 

“ACTRI Director Shajkovci’s presentation shed light on the dynamics of extremism in Belgium and globally, including its coded language, propagation across diverse platforms, and operational strategies encompassing networking, recruitment, and manipulation of individuals through camaraderie and shared interests like video games. Emphasis was placed on security challenges posed by lone actors, rapid online spread of extremist intentions, and the pursuit of potentially violent extremists both online and offline. Storyzy colleagues provided  insights into the social media landscape, its interactions, risks, and opportunities, alongside an overview of the Storyzy disinformation analytic platform’s relevance for law enforcement and intelligence agencies.”

” Right-wing Narratives Associated with Cognitive Predictors of Radicalization  “

Pennsylvania Emergency Preparedness and Homeland Security Conference, October 15-17, 2023.

ACTRI Junior Research Fellow Julis Calvert will be presenting his research conducted at ACTRI ” Right-wing Narratives Associated with Cognitive Predictors of Radicalization: Direct User-Engagement Drives Radicalization” at the 2023 Pennsylvania Emergency Preparedness and Homeland Security Conference.

“The Keystone Emergency Management Association will host its 6th Annual Pennsylvania Emergency Preparedness and Homeland Security Conference (#KEMACon2023) at the Blair County Convention Center in Altoona from October 15-17, 2023. With a focus on “Meeting the Challenge of Tomorrow,” this conference promises to offer diverse educational presentations that will showcase the latest concepts, technology, processes, and evidence-based practices in emergency management and homeland security.”

​

 “CRTG Working Group Expert Briefing Series: Children FTF Online Safety “

April 2023 (Webinar).

ACTRI Director Shajkovci participated in an expert panel technical session organized by The CRTG Working Group, addressing issues related to children affected by the foreign fighter phenomenon. The expert series serves to identify practical solutions that can help protect children navigating the digital environment, while preventing and limiting the spread of extremist ideologies online. Other panelists included Hallie J. Stern, Founder and Director of Mad Mirror Media, Guillaume Soto-Mayor, CRTG Working Group Non-Resident Fellow, and Peta Lowe, Principal Consultant Phronesis Consulting and Training.

​

 “Considerations on the Cyberwar in Ukraine”

February 17, 2023, Washington, DC.

ACTRI Director Shajkovci presentation at the 2023 Dupont Summit on Science, Technology and Environmental Policy organized by the Policy Studies Organization (PSO). Director Shajkovci presented alongside colleague Brandon Valeriano, Distinguished Senior Fellow at Marine Corps University. Other presenters included representatives from the American Public University System, UMBC, Maryland Department of Education, PGCPS, University of Arkansas, Kentucky State University, University of West Florida, University of Massachusetts, GMU, University of Delaware, Marymount University, Department of Veterans Affairs, Rutgers University, Georgetown University, George Washington University, National Science Foundation, Illinois Tech-Chicago-Kent, University of Colorado, CISA,  and many others. 

​

“Community Response against Targeted Violence and Terrorism.”

September 30, 2022, Dudley, MA.

ACTRI Director Shajkovci presentation at the “Community Response Against Targeted Violence and Terrorism” Conference organized by Nichols College MSC Program, Dudley Fire Department, and Nichols College Fischer Institute. Director Shajkovci presented on the most recent manifestations of extremist rhetoric online, including innovative technological tools to detect, monitor, and analyze extremist content online. Leading experts from the FBI, Massachusetts Department of Mental Health and NC Graduate students, among others, discussed research and best practices to strengthen community responses against targeted violence and terrorism. 

The US Department of Homeland Security’s Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships Region 1 Roundtable Event

June 22, 2022

ACTRI Director, Ardian Shajkovci, served as a panelist at the DHS organized, the New England exclusive event. “This roundtable event brings together the whole of society with a common thread in prevention and intervention programming and a foundational goal of helping others thrive.” Other panelists included representatives from Media Education Lab, Life After Hate, and Operation 250. ACTRI Director presented on ACTRI research focused on violent extremism online.  

Vermont Emergency Management “Day of Learning” Event

May 26, 2022, Lake Morey Resort, VT

ACTRI Director, Ardian Shajkovci, and ACTRI Deputy Director, Allison McDowell-Smith, presented at the Vermont Emergency Management conference on the topic of “digital extremism.” In their presentation titled ” Unmasking the Digital Violent Extremism Threat,” ACTRI Director and Deputy Director raised awareness about radicalization processes, discussed global and local modes and manifestations of radicalization and extremist activity online, and provided recommendations on the most effective means of confronting extremist activities

​

Netzwerk Terrorismusforschung e. V. The #NTF21: Workshop on War and Terrorism

Berlin, April 29, 2022

In light of Russia-Ukraine conflict, participants and presenters addressed the relationship between war and terrorism, radicalisation on the battlefield, and digital warfare.  ACTRI Director Shajkovci presented on the topic of Foreign Fighters (FF) in the current Ukraine-Russia conflict. The presentation was based on ACTRI and Director Shajkovci’s most recent field research and trip (March -April 2022) to Poland and Ukraine.

Horn of Africa Roundtable, Embassy of Denmark Somalia

February 1-2, 2022

ACTRI Research Fellow, Rukaya Mohamed, presentation at the panel titled,” Security Architecture, Security Transition Plan, and the Convergence of Threats in the Region.” Ms. Mohamed presented ACTRI research on al Shabaab and Somalia’s DRP and other rehabilitation and reintegration efforts. Panelists also included Ms. Martine Zeuthen (Independent Consultant), Samira Gaid (Hiiraal Institute), Yasmin Ahmed (Adam Smith International, Legal Advisor to Federal Govt. of Somalia), and Ismail Moalim (Regional Security Advisor, Embassy of the Netherlands). The presentation focused al Shabaab strategy in the Horn of Africa, AMISOM’s mandate, and the strengthening of human rights, transparency and accountability in the region. 

​

Sixth International Conference on Hate Studies organized by Gonzaga University

November 4-6, 2021

ACTRI Research Fellow, Dr. Alon Milwicki, presentation at the Sixth International Conference on Hate Studies organized by Gonzaga University. Dr. Milwicki spoke about the need to recognize essential distinctions among white supremacy groups and organizations. Co-hosted by the Spokane County Human Rights Task Force and the Kootenia County Task Force on Human Relations, the conference convened speakers and presenters from University of Pittsburgh, University of Copenhagen, Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Max Plank Institute, Montana Human Rights Network, Stanford University, Western States Center, and many others.

​

Nichols College 9/11 Remembrance Event

September 10, 2021

ACTRI Director and Deputy Director Ardian Shajkovci and Allison McDowell-Smith, respectively, participation at Nichols College  9/11 remembrance event that hosted veterans, counterterrorism experts, officials, students, and other guests. Retired Brigadier General Jack Hammond, commander of the 26th Maneuver Enhanced Brigade in Kabul and former advisor to both Obama and George W. Bush, delivered a speech on recent developments in Afghanistan and ever evolving counter-terrorism landscape. Ardian Shajkovci and Allison McDowell-Smith spoke on counterterrorism.

#NTF20: Revolution, Innovation, Provocation: There is Nothing so Practical as a Good Theory

September 2021, Wiesbaden, Germany.

ACTRI Director, Dr. Ardian Shajkovci, presentation alongside Storyzy partners on disinformation and conspiracy-driven radicalization. ACTRI and Storyzy presentation was selected to be one of only three presentations in the NTF-MOTRA “big stage” slot, presenting to both NTF workshop and the International MOTRA Research Cluster of Excellence audiences. MOTRA represents a research consortium funded by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) to strengthen civil security research, including strengthen investigative activities with Gemany’s Kriminalitätsgeschehen (BKA)in the realm of Islamist extremism and terrorism. Conference presenters included researchers, analysts, and practitioners from BKA, Moonshot, Ghent University, Universität Göttingen, Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Berghof Foundation, University of Berlin, Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, University of Massachusetts Lowell, University of Tübingen and others. 

Revisiting the Last Decades of Turkey- Somalia Relations, International Symposium

Ruqaya Abdirahman, ACTRI Research Fellow: “ Understanding the Rising Popularity of Turkish Drama among the Somali Youth.”

August 19-20, 2021, Ankara, Turkey

The symposium aimed at bringing researchers, scholars, and experts together to discuss 10 years of the relations between Turkey and Somalia. Organized by Africa Foundation, alongside Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, City University of Mogadishu from Somalia, Istanbul Commerce University, and Social Sciences University of Ankara partners.

Is Reintegration of ISIS Returnees a Myth or Reality: Lessons to be Drawn from Balkan Examples organized by Beyond the Horizon

April 2021

ACTRI Director, Dr. Ardian Shajkovci, presented at a panel titled “Is Reintegration of ISIS Returnees a Myth or Reality: Lessons to be Drawn from Balkan Examples.” The event was organized by a Brussels-based think-tank, Beyond the Horizon, and featured panelists from Department of Analysis and Security Policies, Kosovo Security Council Secretariat, University of Sarajevo, and Baltic Defence College.

Let’s Talk White Supremacy: Messing with your Mental Health

March  2021

ACTRI Research Fellow Dr. Alon Milwicki presentation at Rutgers University on white supremacy.
Rutgers University.

Featured speakers: Antonio Morales, Rutgers, Community Based Counselor, and Dr. Alon Milwicki, ACTRI Research Fellow.

History and Resistance

March 26, 2021

ACTRI Research Fellow Dr. Alon Milwicki presentation at 2021 Intersectional Studies Remote Conference, History and Resistance, South Carolina State University. Presentation: “Ideology vs Theology: A Reexamining of Nazism in America.”

2020 Bureau of Conflict & Stabilization (CSO) Stabilizing Fragile States Conference

In January, Dr. Ardian Shajkovci attended the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Conflict & Stabilization Operations’ two-day conference, joining policymakers, experts and practitioners from across America and globally to address the diverse and pressing issues of engaging with armed non-state actors, including discussions on the barriers to reintegration of former combatants and terrorist fighters.

2021 International and National Security: Theoretical and Applied Aspects

International Scientific and Practical Conference “International and National Security: Theoretical and Applied Aspects,” organized by Dnipropetrovsk State University of Internal Affairs, a member of the Association of European Police Colleges (AEPC). Dr. Shajkovci joined participants from the Secretariat of AEPC, senior EU Commissioners, OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine, Ambassadors, law enforcement, educators, representatives from the Ukraine’s Ministry of Interior, and other domestic and international law enforcement and research organizations to address recent trends and best practices to combat terrorism, state interference, gender-based violence, disinformation, cybercrime, and transborder crime.

2020 Focus Group Event with Elderly and Civil Society Members

In February 2020, in cooperation with Samadoon Institute for Peace & Strategic Studies (SIPSS) in Mogadishu, Somalia, Director Dr. Ardian Shajkovci and Director of Strategic Initiatives & Community Programming Mohamed Ahmed, organized a focus group event in Mogadishu with 20 elderly and civil society leaders, who continue to play a pivotal role in Somalia’s Traditional Dispute Resolution (TDR) system. Participants discussed issues of peace, stability, and governance in the context of Somalia’s decades long civil war, foreign military efforts in Somalia, U.S. drone policy, and experiences with al Shabaab and other extremist groups in the country.

2020 COVID-19 & Online Radicalization to Violent Extremism

In March 2020, ACTRI representatives participated in the virtual conference “ COVID-19 lock-down, a breeding ground for online radicalization to violent extremism, “ organized by IGAD Centre of Excellence for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism in the Horn of Africa, where panelists and discussants from over 90 countries shared their most recent insights on the topic.

2019 Operation Blackout Exercise

Dr. Allison McDowell-Smith worked alongside private cybersecurity contractor Cybereason to test the resilience of local election resources in an exercise that pitted red-team antagonists, including McDowell-Smith and other experts from Harvard University and Boston University, against security professionals from the DHS, Secret Service, and local and state police departments. Exercises like these are vital to help identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in our delicate electoral system, as well as to maintaining an air of calm collection during a crisis.

The Balkans, July 2020

ACTRI Director Dr. Ardian Shajkovci traveled to the Balkans in July-August 2020 to conduct a research on the returnees from the conflict zones in Syria and Iraq. Dr. Shajkovci interviewed judges, prosecutors, security officials, ISIS returnees and P/CVE professionals to gain insight into the experiences of (Balkan) countries that have actively repatriated their citizens in recent years from the conflict zones in Iraq and Syria. The research focused on repatriation, rehabilitation and reintegration efforts, including government responses to women returnee prosecution and the perceptions of the threat that they may potentially pose.